[HISTORY: Adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Grand Chute as indicated in article histories. Amendments noted where applicable.]
GENERAL REFERENCES
Erosion and sediment control — See Ch. 275.
Fire prevention — See Ch. 291.
Housing standards — See Ch. 317.
Impact fees — See Ch. 330.
Property maintenance — See Ch. 423.
Sewers — See Ch. 440.
Stormwater management — See Ch. 463.
Subdivision of land — See Ch. 475.
Water — See Ch. 523.
Zoning — See Ch. 535.
[Adopted 1-7-1997 as Ch. 13 of the 1997 Code]
A. 
Title. These regulations (Articles I and II of this chapter and Chapter 317, Housing Standards) shall be known as the "Town Building Code." They shall control all matters concerning the construction, alteration, addition, repair, removal, demolition, use, location, occupancy and maintenance of all buildings and structures and their service equipment as herein defined and shall apply to existing or proposed buildings and structures, except as such matters are otherwise provided for in other ordinances or statutes.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
B. 
Code remedial. The Town Building Code shall be construed to secure its expressed intent and ensure public safety, health and welfare, insofar as they are affected by building construction, through structural strength, adequate egress facilities, sanitary equipment, light and ventilation and firesafety and, in general, to secure safety to life and property from all hazards incident to the design, erection, repair, removal, demolition or use and occupancy of buildings, structures, or premises.
The provisions of the Town Building Code shall apply to all buildings and structures and their appurtenant constructions, including vaults, area and street projections, and accessory additions, and shall apply with equal force to municipal, county, state and private buildings, except where such buildings are otherwise specifically provided for by statute.
A. 
Exemptions. No building or structure shall be constructed, extended, repaired, removed or altered in violation of these provisions, except for ordinary repairs as defined in § 220-3 hereof and except further that the raising or lowering or moving of a building or structure as a unit necessitated by a change in legal grade or widening of a street shall be permitted, provided that the building is not otherwise altered or its use or occupancy changed.
B. 
Matters not provided for. Any requirement essential for structural, fire- or sanitary safety of an existing or proposed building or structure or essential for the safety of the occupants thereof and which is not specifically covered by the Building Code shall be determined by the Building Inspector, subject to review by the Town Board or board duly authorized to hear such appeal.
C. 
Continuation of unlawful use. The continuation of occupancy or use of a building or structure or of a part thereof which occupancy or use is commenced after January 3, 1969, contrary to the provisions of the Town Building Code shall be deemed a violation and subject to the penalties as prescribed in § 220-22C.
Ordinary repairs to buildings may be made without application or notice to the Building Inspector, but such repairs shall not include the cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof, the removal or cutting of any structural beam or bearing support, the removal or change of any required means of egress, or the rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the exit requirements, nor shall ordinary repairs include addition to, alteration of, replacement or relocation of any standpipe, water supply, sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas, soil, waste, vent or similar piping, electric wiring or mechanical or other work affecting public health or general safety.
When the installation, extension, alteration or major repair of an elevator, moving stairway, mechanical equipment, refrigerating, air-conditioning or ventilating apparatus, plumbing, gas piping, electric wiring, heating system or any other equipment is specifically controlled by the provisions of the Town Building Code or the approved rules, it shall be unlawful to use such equipment until a certificate of approval has been issued therefor by the Building Inspector.
All buildings and structures and all parts thereof, both existing and new, shall be maintained in a safe and sanitary condition. All service equipment, means of egress, devices and safeguards which are required by the Town Building Code in a building, or which were required by a previous code in a building when erected, altered or repaired, shall be maintained in good working order. The owner or his designated agent shall be responsible for the safe and sanitary maintenance of the building or structure and its exit facilities at all times.
A. 
Continuation of existing use. The legal use and occupancy of any structure existing on June 30, 1974, or for which it had been heretofore approved, may be continued without change, except as may be specifically covered in the Town Building Code or as may be deemed necessary by the Building Inspector for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.
B. 
Change in use. It shall be unlawful to make any changes in the use or occupancy of any structure which would subject it to any special provision of the Town Building Code without approval of the Building Inspector and his certification that such structure meets the provisions of law governing building construction for the proposed new use and occupancy.
A. 
Except as provided in this section, existing buildings, when altered or repaired as herein specified, shall be made to conform to the full requirements of the Town Building Code for new buildings:
(1) 
Alterations exceeding 50%. If alterations or repairs are made within any period of 12 months costing in excess of 50% of the physical value of the building; or
(2) 
Damages exceeding 50%. If the building is damaged by fire or any other cause to an extent in excess of 50% of the physical value of the building before the damage was incurred.
B. 
Alterations under 50%. If the cost of alterations or repairs described herein is between 25% and 50% of the physical value of the building, the Building Inspector shall determine to what degree the portions so altered or repaired shall be made to conform to the requirements for new buildings.
C. 
Alterations under 25%. If the cost of alterations or repairs described herein is 25% or less of the physical value of the building, the Building Inspector shall permit restoration of the building to its condition previous to damage or deterioration with the same kind of materials as those of which the building was constructed, provided that such construction does not endanger the general safety and public welfare
D. 
Increase in size. If the building is increased in floor area or number of stories, the entire building shall be made to conform to the requirements of the Town Building Code in respect to means of egress, firesafety, light and ventilation.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Original § 13.07, Subsection 6, Part change in use, which immediately followed this subsection, was repealed at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
E. 
Physical value. In applying the provisions of this section, the physical value of the building shall be determined by the Town Assessor based on current replacement costs.
A. 
Building official. The Building Inspection Department of Building Inspection of the Town is hereby created, and the executive official in charge thereof shall be known as the "Building Inspector."
B. 
Appointment. The Building Inspector shall be appointed by the Town Board, and he shall not be removed from office except for cause and after full opportunity has been granted him to be heard on specific and relevant charges by and before the appointing authority.
C. 
Organization. The Building Inspector shall appoint such number of officers, technical assistants, inspectors and other employees as shall be necessary for the administration of the Town Building Code and as authorized by the Town Board.
D. 
Deputy. The Building Inspector may designate an employee as his deputy who shall exercise all the powers of the Building Inspector during the temporary absence or disability of the Building Inspector.
E. 
Restriction on employees. No official or employee connected with the Building Inspection Department shall be engaged in or directly or indirectly connected with the furnishing of labor, materials or appliances for the construction, alteration or maintenance of a building, or the preparation of plans or of specifications therefor, unless he is the owner of the building, nor shall such officer or employee engage in any work which conflicts with his official duties or with the interests of the Department.
F. 
Relief from person responsibility. The Building Inspector, officer or employee charged with the enforcement of the Town Building Code, while acting for the Town, shall not thereby render himself liable personally, and he is hereby relieved from all personal liability for any damage that may accrue to persons or property as a result of any act required or permitted in the discharge of his official duties. Any suit instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by him in the lawful discharge of his duties and under the provisions of the Town Building Code shall be defended by the Town Attorney until the final termination of the proceedings. In no case shall the Building Inspector or any of his subordinates be liable for costs in any action, suit or proceeding that may be instituted in pursuance of the provisions of the Town Building Code, and any officer of the Building Inspection Department, acting in good faith and without malice, shall be free from liability for acts performed under any of its provisions or by reason of any act or omission in the performance of his official duties in connection therewith.
G. 
Official records. An official record shall be kept of all business and activities of the Department, and all such records shall be open to public inspection at all appropriate times.
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
The Building Inspector shall enforce all the provisions of the Town Building Code and shall act on any question relative to the mode or manner of construction and the materials to be used in the erection, addition to, alteration, repair, removal, or demolition, installation of service equipment, and the location, use, occupancy and maintenance of all buildings and structures, except as may otherwise be provided for by statutory requirements or as herein provided.
A. 
Applications and permits. He shall receive all applications and be responsible for all permits issued for the erection and alteration of buildings and structures and the examination of premises for which such permits have been issued and the enforcement of compliance with the Town Building Code provisions.
B. 
Building notices and orders. He shall issue all necessary notices or orders to remove illegal or unsafe conditions, to require the necessary safeguards during construction, to require adequate exit facilities in existing buildings and structures, and to ensure compliance with all the code requirements for the safety, health and general welfare of the public.
C. 
Inspections. He shall make all the required inspections, or he may accept reports of inspection of authoritative and recognized services or individuals, and all reports of such inspections shall be in writing and certified by a responsible officer of such authoritative service or by the responsible individual, or he may engage such expert opinion as he may deem necessary to report upon unusual technical issues that may arise, subject to the approval of the appointing authority.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Original § 13.09, Subsection 4, Research and investigations, which immediately followed this subsection, was repealed at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
D. 
Department records. He shall keep official records of applications received, permits and certificates issued, fees collected, reports of inspections, and notices and orders issued. File copies of all papers in connection with building operations shall be retained in the official records so long as the building or structure to which they relate remains in existence, and such records shall be furnished to other municipal departments.
E. 
Reports. He shall submit periodic reports as required by the Town Board and an annual report summarizing the preceding year to the municipal governing body.
A. 
Rule-making authority. The Building Inspector shall have power as may be necessary in the interest of public safety, health and general welfare to adopt and promulgate rules and regulations to interpret and implement the provisions of the Town Building Code to secure the intent thereof and to designate requirements applicable because of local climatic or other conditions, but no such rules shall have the effect of waiving working stresses or fire-resistive requirements specifically provided in the Town Building Code or of violating accepted engineering practice involving public safety.
B. 
Promulgation of rules. No rule or regulation shall become effective until after the intention to adopt such rules shall have been published in accordance with local ordinances.
C. 
Amendment of rules. All rules adopted by the procedure herein established shall have the same effect as provisions of the Town Building Code, but such rules may be amended or repealed at any time by the same procedure herein prescribed for their adoption.
A. 
Variations. When there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out structural or mechanical provisions of the Town Building Code or of an approved rule, the Building Inspector may vary or modify such provision upon application of the owner or his representative, provided that the spirit and intent of the law shall be observed and public welfare and safety shall be assured.
B. 
Written modification. The application for modification and the final decision of the Building Inspector shall be in writing and shall be officially recorded with the permanent application for the permit in the permanent records of the Building Inspection Department.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
A. 
Preliminary inspection. Before issuing a permit, the Building Inspector shall examine or cause to be examined all buildings, structures and sites for which an application has been filed for a permit to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, demolish or change the use thereof, and he shall conduct such inspections from time to time during and upon completion of the work for which he has issued a permit, and he shall maintain a record of all such examinations and inspections and of all violations of the Town Building Code.
B. 
Final inspection. Upon completion of the building or structure and before issuance of the certificate of occupancy required in this article, a final inspection shall be made and all violations of the approved plans and permit shall be noted and the holder of the permit shall be notified of the discrepancies.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
In the discharge of his duties, the Building Inspector or his authorized representative may enter at any reasonable hour any building, structure or premises in the Town to enforce the provisions of the Town Building Code.
A. 
When permit is required. It shall be unlawful to construct, enlarge, alter, remove or demolish, or change the occupancy of a building from one use group to another requiring greater strength, exit or sanitary provisions, or to change to a prohibited use, or to install or alter any equipment for which provision is made or the installation of which is regulated by the Town Building Code, without first filing an application with the Building Inspector on the form provided in writing and obtaining the required permit therefor, except that ordinary repairs as defined in § 220-3 which do not involve any violation of the Town Building Code shall be exempt from this provision.
B. 
By whom application is made. Application for a permit shall be made by the owner or lessee of the building or structure, or agent of either, or by the licensed engineer or architect employed in connection with the proposed work. If the application is made by a person other than the owner in fee, it shall be accompanied by a duly verified affidavit of the owner or the qualified person making the application that the proposed work is authorized by the owner in fee and the applicant is authorized to make such application. The full names and addresses of the owner, lessee, applicant, and of the responsible officers, if the owner or lessee is a corporate body, shall be stated in the application.
C. 
Description of work. The application shall contain a general description of the proposed work, its location, the use and occupancy of all parts of the building or structure and of all portions of the site or lot not covered by the building, and such additional information as may be required by the Building Inspector.
D. 
Plans and specifications. The application for the permit shall be accompanied by not fewer than two copies of specifications and of plans drawn to scale with sufficient clarity and detail dimensions to show the nature and character of the work to be performed. When quality of materials is essential for conformity to the Town Building Code, specific information shall be given to establish such quality, and in no case shall this code be cited or the term "legal" or its equivalent be used as a substitute for specific information.
E. 
Plot diagram. There shall also be filed a plot plan showing to scale the size and location of all the new construction and all existing structures on the site, distances from lot lines and the established street grades, and it shall be drawn in accordance with an accurate boundary line survey. In the case of demolition, the plot plan shall show all construction to be demolished and the location and size of all existing buildings and construction that are to remain on the site or plot.
F. 
Engineering details. The Building Inspector may require adequate details of structural, mechanical and electrical work, including computations, stress diagrams and other essential technical data, to be filed. All engineering plans and computations shall bear the signature of the engineer or architect responsible for the design.
G. 
Amendments to application. Subject to the limitations of Subsection H, amendments to a plan, application or other records accompanying the same may be filed at any time before completion of the work for which the permit is sought or issued, and such amendments shall be deemed part of the original application and shall be filed therewith.
H. 
Time limitation of application. An application for a permit for any proposed work shall be deemed to have been abandoned six months after the date of filing unless such application has been diligently prosecuted or a permit shall have been issued, except that, for reasonable cause, the Building Inspector may grant one or more extensions of time for additional periods not exceeding 90 days each.
A. 
Action on application. The Building Inspector shall examine or cause to be examined all applications for permits and amendments thereto within 48 hours' time after filing. If the applicant or the plans do not conform to the requirements of all pertinent laws, he shall reject such application in writing stating the reasons therefor. If he is satisfied that the proposed work conforms to the requirements of the Town Building Code and all laws and ordinances applicable thereto, he shall issue a permit therefor as soon as possible.
B. 
Suspension of permit. Any permit issued shall become invalid if the authorized work is suspended or abandoned for a period of six months after the time of commencing the work.
C. 
Previous approvals. Nothing in the Town Building Code shall require changes in the plans, construction or designated use of a building for which a lawful permit has been heretofore issued or otherwise lawfully authorized and the construction of which shall have been actively prosecuted within 90 days after and the entire building shall have been completed as authorized within two years after the date of approval of the application.
D. 
Signature on permit. The Building Inspector shall attach his signature to every permit.
E. 
Approved plans. The Building Inspector shall stamp or endorse in writing both sets of corrected plans "Approved," and one set of such approved plans shall be retained by him and the other set shall be kept at the building site, open to inspection of the Building Inspector or his authorized representative at all reasonable times.
F. 
Revocation of permits. The Building Inspector may revoke a permit or approval issued under the provisions of the Town Building Code in case of any false statement or misrepresentation of fact in the application or on the plans on which the permit or approval was based.
G. 
Approval in part. The Building Inspector may issue a permit for the construction of foundations or any other part of a building or structure before the entire plans and specifications for the whole building have been submitted, provided that adequate information and detailed statements have been filed complying with all the pertinent requirements of the Town Building Code. The holder of such permit for the foundations or other part of a building or structure shall proceed at his own risk with the building operation and without assurance that a permit for the entire structure will be granted.
H. 
Posting of permit and site plan. A true copy of the building permit shall be kept on the site of operations open to public inspection during the entire time of prosecution of the work and until the completion of the same.
A. 
Payment of fees. No permit shall be issued until the fees have been paid.
B. 
Compliance with code. The permit shall be a license to proceed with the work and shall not be construed as authority to violate, cancel or set aside any of the provisions of the Town Building Code, except as specifically stipulated by modification or legally granted variation as described in the application.
C. 
Compliance with permit. All work shall conform to the approved application and plans for which the permit has been issued and any approved amendments thereto.
D. 
Compliance with plot plan. All new work shall be located strictly in accordance with the approved plot plan.
E. 
Change in plot plan.
(1) 
No lot or plot shall be changed, increased or diminished in area from that shown on the official plot plan unless a revised diagram showing such changes accompanied by the necessary affidavit of the owner or applicant shall have been filed and approved, except that such revised plot plan will not be required if the change is caused by reason of an official street opening, street widening or other public improvement.
(2) 
Condominium plats. No permit shall be issued for any structure to be constructed within a condominium plat recorded pursuant to Ch. 703, Wis. Stats., unless:
(a) 
The Town Board has approved the plat or amended plat after consideration by the Plan Commission.
(b) 
The structure complies with all covenants, bylaws and restrictions contained in the recorded plat or amended plat.
F. 
Cleanliness; removal of debris. Every building shall be kept reasonably clean, during construction and after construction, and shall be kept reasonably free from any accumulation of dirt, filth, rubbish, garbage, excess building materials or other matter in or on the same or in the yards, courts, passages, areas or alleys connected with or belonging to the same. Streets shall be kept clear and clean of boards, nails or other debris and shall be further kept clean of accumulation of dirt, mud or ground. The holder of the permit, whether the owner of the premises upon which construction is being undertaken or the general contractor or any subcontractor on said building project, shall be responsible for hauling all rubbish and debris away from the construction site at the contractor's expense or the expense of the subcontractor or the owner, as agreed between the parties, all at no cost to the Town of Grand Chute. This subsection includes residential, commercial and industrial construction and any remodeling of existing residential, commercial or industrial properties. This subsection may be enforced as herein provided or under public nuisances, under the abatement thereof.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 398, Nuisances. Original § 13.16, Subsection 7, Contractor's agreement - removal of debris, which immediately followed this subsection, was repealed at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
[Amended 10-7-1997]
A. 
Permit required. No building shall be moved over the streets or roads of the Town unless a permit has been granted by the Town Clerk.
B. 
Application. Any person wishing to move a building over the streets or roads of the Town shall make application to the Building Inspector on a form provided by the Building Inspector. Such application shall be signed by the owner of the property to where the building is being moved.
C. 
Permit to state requirements.
(1) 
Every permit issued shall state all conditions to be complied with and designate the route to be taken and the limit of time for removal.
(2) 
The moving of the building shall be continuous during all hours of the day and day by day if the Town Board so orders until the moving is completed, to cause the least possible obstruction to streets or roads.
(3) 
No building shall be allowed to remain stationary overnight on any street or road, crossing, or intersection.
(4) 
Red warning lights shall be placed conspicuously at both ends of the building during the night.
(5) 
The mover of the building shall report daily to the Town Fire Department and the Town police the location of the building on the street or road.
(6) 
If a building being moved must remain stationary on a street or road for any period of time, permission for such shall be obtained from the designated authority and the Building Inspector, and the building shall be so placed as to permit easy access to any fire hydrant.
D. 
Permits to be granted. No permit shall be granted by the Town Clerk for the moving of buildings over the streets or roads of the Town without certain conditions being met.
(1) 
The axle load shall be such that there is no damage to the road surface as determined by the Building Inspector.
(2) 
The building shall be of such length, height and width that in the opinion of the Building Inspector it will not interfere with power lines, trees, and other structures along the route to be traveled.
(3) 
No building shall be moved over a bridge in the Town.
(4) 
The applicant shall deposit with the Town Clerk a bond of $2,000 with acceptable surety running to the Town conditioned that he will save and indemnify the Town against any costs, expenses, or damages which may in any way accrue against the Town by reason of moving and will hold the Town harmless against all liabilities, judgments, costs, and expenses as a consequence of the granting of a permit.
E. 
Inspector to be appointed.
(1) 
The mover of any building to whom a permit has been granted shall notify the Building Inspector of the time when moving is to begin.
(2) 
The Building Inspector may appoint an inspector to be present during the moving operations to supervise such moving. The appointment of an inspector in no way relieves the mover from any liability for damage that may be done during the moving operation. The Building Inspector may also request the Town Department of Public Works to trim the necessary trees along the route. The costs of the inspector and tree trimmers shall be billed at actual cost to the mover.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
F. 
Buildings moved within Town. No building shall be moved from one location to another location within the Town limits without certain conditions being met.
(1) 
The Building Inspector shall issue a building permit for the relocation of said building in compliance with all building and zoning regulations.
(2) 
A relocation shall not be made if there is a protest unless so granted by a three-fourths vote of the Town Board. A protest of the relocation shall be duly signed and acknowledged by the owners of 20% or more of the land immediately adjacent extending 100 feet therefrom or by the owners of 20% or more of the land directly opposite thereto extending 100 feet from the street or road frontage of such opposite land.[2]
[2]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
(3) 
No building shall be moved from one location to another location within the Town if said building has been in existence more than 50% of its estimated life expectancy as set forth in Boeckh's Manual of Appraisals Depreciation Table for Buildings.
(4) 
No building shall be moved from outside the corporate limits of the Town to within the corporate limits of the Town unless approved by the Town Clerk and the Building Inspector under Subsection F(1) above.
(5) 
No building being moved from within the Town to outside the Town shall require a building permit.
G. 
Moving of small buildings on trucks or trailers.
(1) 
Smaller buildings of one story in height and not more than 14 feet wide including cornice may be moved on a truck or trailer equipped with pneumatic tires.
(2) 
All conditions required for the moving of buildings shall be met except for Subsection D(3). The following will replace it: A police escort shall be required if a bridge is to be crossed.
Before a building can be demolished or removed, the owner or agent shall notify all utilities having service connections within the building, such as water, electric, gas, sewer and other connections. A permit to demolish or remove a building shall not be issued until a release is obtained from the utilities stating that their respective service connections and appurtenant equipment, such as meters and regulators, have been removed or sealed and plugged in a safe manner.
A. 
Notice to adjoining owners. Only when written notice has been given by the applicant to the owners of adjoining lots and to the owners of wired or other facilities, the temporary removal of which may be necessitated by the proposed work, shall a permit be granted for the removal of a building or structure.
B. 
Lot regulation. Whenever a building is demolished or removed, the premises shall be maintained free from all unsafe or hazardous conditions by the proper regulation of the lot, restoration of established grades and the erection of the necessary retaining walls and fences in accordance with the ordinances.
A. 
No permit to begin work for new construction, alteration, removal, demolition or other building operation shall be issued until the fees prescribed in this code shall have been paid to the Building Inspector, nor shall an amendment to a permit, necessitating an additional fee because of an increase in the estimated cost of the work involved, be approved until the additional fee shall have been paid.
B. 
Special fees. The payment of the fee for the construction, alteration, removal or demolition and for all work done in connection with or concurrently with the work contemplated by a building permit shall not relieve the applicant or holder of the permit from the payment of other fees that may be prescribed by law or ordinance for water taps, sewer connections, electrical permits, or the erection of signs and display structures, marquees or other appurtenant structures, or fees for inspections, certificates of occupancy or other privileges or requirements, both within and without the jurisdiction of the Building Inspector.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
C. 
New construction and alterations. The fee for a building permit shall be based on the square feet of the structure or as otherwise prescribed in the local ordinances, and the Building Inspector may establish by approved rules a schedule of square foot rates for buildings and structures where not established by the Town Board.
D. 
Moving of buildings. The fee for a building permit for the removal of a building or structure from one lot to another or to a new location on the same lot shall be as periodically adopted by the Grand Chute Town Board and shall be paid to the Town Clerk.
E. 
Demolition. The fee for a permit for the demolition of a building or structure shall be at the rate set by the Town for each building or structure.[2]
[2]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
F. 
Accounting. The Building Inspector shall keep an accurate account of all fees collected for building permits, and such fees collected by him shall be deposited monthly in the Town treasury or otherwise disposed of as required by law.
G. 
Refunds. In the case of a revocation of a permit or abandonment or discontinuance of a building project, the volume of work actually completed shall be computed and any excess fee for the uncompleted work shall be returned to the permit holder, except that all penalties that may have been imposed on the permit holder under the requirements of the Town Building Code shall first be collected.
H. 
Fee schedule. The current Town Fee Schedule is on file at the Town Clerk's office.[3]
[3]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
A. 
New buildings. No building hereafter erected shall be used or occupied in whole or in part until a certificate of occupancy shall have been issued by the Building Inspector.
B. 
Buildings hereafter altered. No building hereafter enlarged, extended or altered to change from one use group to another, in whole or in part, and no building hereafter altered for which a certificate of occupancy has not been heretofore issued shall be occupied or used until the certificate shall have been issued by the Building Inspector certifying that the work has been completed in accordance with the provisions of the approved permit, except that any use or occupancy which was not discontinued during the work of alteration shall be discontinued within 30 days after the completion of the alteration unless the required certificate is secured from the Building Inspector.
C. 
Existing buildings. Upon written request from the owner of an existing building, the Building Inspector shall issue a certificate of occupancy, provided that there are no violations of law or orders of the Building Inspector pending and it is established after inspection and investigation that the alleged use of the building has heretofore existed. Nothing in the Town Building Code shall require the removal, alteration or abandonment of, or prevent the continuance of the use and occupancy of, a lawfully existing building unless such use is deemed to endanger public safety and welfare.
D. 
Changes in use and occupancy. After a change of use has been made in a building, the reestablishment of a prior use that would not have been legal in a new building of the same type of construction is prohibited unless all the applicable provisions of the Town Building Code are complied with. A change from one prohibited use, for which a permit has been granted, to another prohibited use shall be deemed a violation of the Town Building Code.
E. 
Temporary occupancy. Upon the request of a holder of a permit, the Building Inspector may issue a temporary certificate of occupancy for a building or structure, or part thereof, before the entire work covered by the permit shall have been completed, provided that such portion or portions may be occupied safely prior to full completion of the building without endangering life or public welfare.
F. 
Issuance of certificate. When a building or structure is entitled thereto, the Building Inspector shall issue a certificate of occupancy within 10 days after written application.
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
A. 
Notice of violation. The Building Inspector shall serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, use or occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the provisions of the Town Building Code, or in violation of a detail statement or a plan approved thereunder, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of the Town Building Code, and such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
B. 
Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the Building Inspector shall request the Town Attorney to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation of an approved plan or directive of the Building Inspector or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of the Town Building Code.
C. 
Penalty. Any person who shall violate any provisions of this article shall, upon conviction thereof, be fined in an amount as prescribed in the Uniform Forfeiture and Bond Schedules for each violation, together with the costs of prosecution, and in default of payment of such forfeiture shall be imprisoned in the county jail until such forfeiture is paid, but not exceeding 90 days. Each day that a violation continues shall be deemed a separate offense.
D. 
Abatement of violation. The imposition of the penalties herein prescribed shall not preclude the Town Attorney from instituting appropriate action to prevent unlawful construction, or to restrain, correct or abate a violation, or to prevent illegal occupancy of a building, structure or premises, or to stop an illegal act, conduct, business or use of a building or structure in or about any premises.
A. 
Notice to owner. Upon notice from the Building Inspector that work on any building or structure is being prosecuted contrary to the provisions of the Town Building Code, such work shall be immediately stopped. The stop-work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property involved or to the owner's agent or to the person doing the work and shall state the conditions under which work may be resumed.
B. 
Unlawful continuance. Any person who shall continue any work in or about the building after having been served with a stop-work order, except such work as he is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe conditions, shall be liable to a penalty as provided in § 220-22C of this article.
A. 
Right of condemnation. All buildings or structures that are or hereafter shall become unsafe, unsanitary, or deficient in adequate exit facilities, or which constitute a fire hazard, or which by reason of illegal or improper use, occupancy or maintenance are otherwise dangerous to human life or the public welfare, shall be deemed unsafe buildings or structures. All unsafe buildings shall be taken down and removed or made safe and secure, as the Building Inspector may deem necessary and as provided in this section. A vacant building, unguarded or open at door or window, shall be deemed a fire hazard and unsafe within the meaning of the Town Building Code.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
B. 
Examination and record of damaged building. The Building Inspector shall examine every building or structure reported as dangerous, unsafe structurally or constituting a fire hazard, and he shall cause the report to be filed in a docket of unsafe structures and premises, stating the use of the building and the nature and estimated amount of damages, if any, caused by collapse or failure.
C. 
Notice of unsafe building. If an unsafe condition is found in a building or structure, the Building Inspector shall serve on the owner, agent or person in control of the building or structure a written notice describing the building or structure deemed unsafe and specifying the required repairs or improvements to be made to render the building or structure safe and secure or requiring the unsafe building or structure or portion thereof to be demolished within a stipulated time. Such notice shall require the person thus notified to declare within the specified time to the Building Inspector his acceptance or rejection of the terms of the order.
D. 
Restoration of unsafe building. A building or structure condemned by the Building Inspector may be restored to safe condition, except that if the damage or cost of reconstruction or restoration is in excess of 50% of its replacement value, exclusive of foundations, such building shall be made to comply in all respects with the requirements for materials and methods of construction of buildings hereafter erected.
E. 
Posting unsafe notice. If the person addressed with an unsafe notice cannot be found within the Town after diligent search, then such notice shall be sent by registered mail to the last known address of such person and a copy of the unsafe notice shall be posted in a conspicuous place on the premises, and such procedure shall be deemed the equivalent of personal notice.
F. 
Disregard of unsafe notice. Upon refusal or neglect of the person served with an unsafe notice to comply with the requirements of the order to abate the unsafe condition, the Town Attorney shall be advised of all the facts and he shall institute the appropriate action to compel compliance.
A. 
Vacating buildings. When, in the opinion of the Building Inspector, there is actual and immediate danger of failure or collapse of a building or structure or any part thereof which would endanger life, or when any structure or part of a structure has fallen and life is endangered by the occupation of the building, the Building Inspector is hereby authorized and empowered to order and require the inmates and occupants to vacate the same forthwith. He shall cause to be posted at each entrance to such building a notice reading as follows: "This building is unsafe and its use or occupancy has been prohibited by the Building Inspector, Town of Grand Chute," and it shall be unlawful for any person to enter such building or structure except for the purpose of making the required repairs or of demolishing the same.
B. 
Temporary safeguards. When, in the opinion of the Building Inspector, there is actual and immediate danger of collapse or failure of a building or structure or any part thereof which would endanger life, he shall cause the necessary work to be done to render such building or structure or part thereof temporarily safe, whether or not the legal procedure herein prescribed has been instituted.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
C. 
Closing streets. When necessary for the public safety, the Building Inspector may temporarily close streets, buildings and structures and places adjacent to such unsafe buildings and prohibit the same from being used.
D. 
Emergency repairs. For the purposes of this section, the Building Inspector shall employ the necessary labor and materials to perform the required work as expeditiously as possible.
E. 
Costs of emergency repairs. Costs incurred in the performance of emergency work shall be paid from the Town treasury on certificate of the Building Inspector, and the Town Attorney shall institute appropriate action against the owner of the premises where the unsafe building or structure was located for the recovery of such costs.
[1]
Editor's Note: Original § 13.26, Street identification numbering, was rescinded 9-21-2010 by Ord. No. 2010-15. See now Ch. 224, Buildings, Numbering of.
[Adopted 1-7-1997 as Ch. 14 of the 1997 Code]
A. 
General permit requirement. No building, plumbing, electrical, heating, ventilating or air-conditioning work shall be performed in the Town of Grand Chute unless a permit therefor is obtained as required by the provisions of this article.
B. 
Payment of fees. All fees shall be paid to the Building Inspector of the Town of Grand Chute before the Inspector shall issue to the owner or his agent any permit herein required.
C. 
Permit lapses. Any permit issued hereunder shall lapse and be void unless the work for which the permit was obtained shall be commenced within six months of the date of issuance.
D. 
Revocation. If the Building Inspector shall find at any time that the ordinances, laws, orders, plans and specifications are not being complied with and that the holder of the permit refuses to conform after a written notice posted at the site of the work, the Building Inspector shall revoke the permit. When any such permit is revoked, it shall be unlawful to do any further work thereunder until the permit is reissued, except such work as the Building Inspector may order to be done as a condition precedent to the reissuance of the permit or as he may require for the preservation of human life and safety or property.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
E. 
Records. The Building Inspector shall keep a record of all permits, fees and inspections and shall make an annual report thereon to the Town Board.
F. 
Deputy Building Inspector. A Deputy Building Inspector may be appointed, subject to approval of the Town Board of the Town of Grand Chute, to perform all necessary duties under the Building, Electrical, and Plumbing Codes herein, including the issuing of permits. The Town Board of the Town of Grand Chute shall have authority to appoint Deputy Building Inspectors in place of the Building Inspector to perform all functions required of the Building Inspector under the Building, Electrical and Plumbing Codes herein.[2]
[2]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
A. 
Building permits and inspection.
(1) 
Permit required. No building or any part thereof shall hereafter be erected within the Town of Grand Chute or ground broken for the same, except as hereinafter provided, until a permit therefor shall first have been obtained from the Building Inspector by the owner or his authorized agent. The term "building" as used in this section shall include any building or structure and any enlargement, alteration, heating or ventilating installation, moving or demolishing, or anything affecting the fire hazards or safety of any building or structure. No building permit shall be issued where a culvert will be installed unless a permit for the proper size and type of culvert first is obtained from the proper authority. No building permit shall be issued for the erection of a building unless located upon a dedicated highway, street or alley.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
(2) 
Application. Application for a building permit shall be made in writing upon a form furnished by the Building Inspector and shall state the name and address of the owner of the land and also of the owner of the building, if different, and the legal description of the land upon which the building is to be located and shall contain such other information as the Building Inspector may require for effective enforcement of this section.
(3) 
Plans. With such application there shall be submitted two complete sets of plans and specifications, including a plot plan showing the location of the proposed building with respect to adjoining streets, alleys, lot lines and buildings. Plans for buildings required to comply with the State Building Code shall bear a stamp of approval from the Department of Safety and Professional Services. Such plans and specifications shall be submitted in duplicate; one set shall be returned after approval as hereinafter provided and the other set shall remain on file in the office of the Clerk. All plans and specifications shall be signed by the designer.
(4) 
Waiver of plans. If the Building Inspector finds that the character of the work is sufficiently described in the application, he may waive the filing of plans for alterations, repairs or moving, provided that the cost of such work does not exceed $2,000.
(5) 
Approval of plans. If the Building Inspector determines that the proposed building will comply in every respect with all ordinances of the Town and all applicable laws and orders of the State of Wisconsin, he shall officially approve and stamp one set of the plans and return it to the owner and shall issue a building permit therefor which shall be kept and displayed at the site of the proposed building. After being approved, the plans and specifications shall not be altered in any respect which involves any of the above-mentioned ordinances, laws and orders, or which involves the safety of the building or occupants, except with the written consent of the Building Inspector.[2]
[2]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
(6) 
Minor repairs. The Building Inspector may authorize minor repairs or alterations which do not change the occupancy, area, structural strength, fire protection, exits, light or ventilation of the building without issuing a building permit.[3]
[3]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
(7) 
Inspection of work. The building contractor or owner shall notify the Building Inspector when ready, and the Building Inspector shall inspect all buildings based on State Building Code requirements.[4]
[4]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
B. 
State Building Code adopted.
[Amended 12-16-2003]
(1) 
The following Wisconsin Administrative Codes, their referenced codes and standards, and subsequent revisions are adopted for municipal enforcement by the Building Inspectors, who shall be certified as commercial building inspectors by the State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. (Note: Where plan review is conducted under the status of an agent municipality, the review fees as established in Ch. Comm 2 shall be enforced.)
(a) 
Chapter Comm 2, Fee Schedule.
(b) 
Chapters Comm 61 to 66, Wisconsin Commercial Building Code.
(c) 
Chapters Comm 75 to 79, Buildings Constructed Prior to 1914.
(2) 
The following Wisconsin Administrative Codes, their referenced codes and standards, and subsequent revisions are adopted for municipal enforcement by the Building Inspectors, who shall be certified as Uniform Dwelling Code inspectors by the State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services: Chapters Comm 20 to 25, Uniform Dwelling Code.
(a) 
The Uniform Dwelling Code is hereby adopted by reference as part of this article with respect to all additions or remodeling of existing dwellings.
(b) 
General requirements and applicable standards contained within the Uniform Dwelling Code are also adopted by reference as part of this article with respect to all residential accessory buildings and structures.
C. 
Permit fees. See the Town Fee Schedule. Before a permit is issued to a contractor, the owner or his agent, the fees shall be paid to the Town Building Inspector at the same time the permit is issued.[5]
[5]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II). Original § 14.05, Plans to be submitted to Industrial Commission, which immediately followed this subsection, was repealed at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
D. 
Hold harmless agreement. The developer responsible for installation of public improvements as required by the Roadway Development Agreement and Town Code shall execute a hold harmless agreement prior to the Town issuing a building permit in the development. The hold harmless agreement shall make the developer responsible for all maintenance and liability for the public improvements until all public improvements are completed and accepted by the Town Board and Sanitary Districts.
[Amended 7-15-2003]
E. 
Public improvement requirements for building permit and certificate of occupancy.
[Amended 7-15-2003]
(1) 
No building permit shall be issued for any construction of any structure until sewer (or county-approved septic system), water (or approved well), public street grading and paving, stormwater collection system and stormwater detention system are installed necessary to serve the structure for which the permit is required.[6]
[6]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
(2) 
Staff may issue building permits prior to Town Board/Sanitary District acceptance of the public improvements if the Town Engineer has approved the public improvements and the developer has executed a hold harmless agreement according to Subsection D.
(3) 
No certificate of occupancy shall be issued until the Town Board and Sanitary Districts have approved and accepted the public improvements.
F. 
New methods and materials. All materials, methods of construction, and devices designed for use in buildings or structures covered by this article and not specifically mentioned in or permitted by this article shall not be so used until approved in writing by the Department of Safety and Professional Services of Wisconsin for use in buildings or structures covered by the Wisconsin State Building Code, except sanitary appliances, which shall be approved in accordance with the State Plumbing Code issued by the State Department of Safety and Professional Services. Such materials, methods of construction and devices, when approved, must be installed or used in strict compliance with the manufacturer's specifications and any rules or conditions of use established by the State Department of Safety and Professional Services. The data, test and other evidence necessary to prove the merits of such material, method of construction or device shall be determined by the Department of Safety and Professional Services.[7]
[7]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
G. 
Unsafe buildings. Whenever the Building Inspector finds any building or part thereof within the Town to be in his judgment so old, dilapidated or so out of repair as to be dangerous, unsafe, unsanitary or otherwise unfit for human habitation, occupancy or use, and so that it would be unreasonable to repair the same, he shall order the owner to raze and remove such building or part thereof or, if it can be made safe by repairs, to repair and make safe and sanitary or to raze and remove at the owner's option. Such order and proceedings shall be as provided in § 66.0413, Wis. Stats.
A. 
State law adopted. The Wisconsin State Electrical Code, Ch. Comm 16, Wis. Adm. Code, is adopted by reference as a part of this article.
B. 
Administration.
(1) 
Duties of Building Inspector. The Inspector shall enforce all the ordinances or laws relating to electrical installation, including any lawful orders issued by the Department of Safety and Professional Services or any other agency of the State of Wisconsin, and there is hereby vested in the Department the necessary power and authority to properly execute such duties. "Inspector" as used in this article means the Building Inspector.
(2) 
Authority to discontinue electrical operations. The Inspector may cause the turning off of all electrical currents to any equipment which he finds to be in an unsafe condition and may cut or discontinue electrical services in case of emergency and where such electrical currents are dangerous to life or property or may interfere with the work of the Fire Department. No person shall reconnect any equipment thus cut off until written permission is given by the Inspector.
(3) 
Periodic inspection. The Inspector periodically may make thorough examinations of all the electrical wires and appliances installed within the Town, and when such wires or appliances are found to be in a dangerous or unsafe condition he shall notify the person owning, using, operating, or installing the same to place them in a safe condition. Any person failing or refusing to make the necessary repairs or changes and have such completed within 15 days (or any longer period which may be deemed reasonably by the Inspector) after the receipt of such notice shall forfeit and pay into the Town treasury the prescribed sum for each day which shall elapse after the expiration of said period, and the Inspector may order the discontinuance of electrical service to such defective wires or equipment until they have been repaired, removed, or changed as directed by the Inspector, subject to the limitations of this article.
C. 
Licenses.
(1) 
License required. No person shall perform the work of an electrical contractor unless licensed by the State of Wisconsin. Qualifications for an electrical contractor's license shall be defined by the State of Wisconsin.
(2) 
Exemptions.
(a) 
Employees of electrical, telephone, telegraph and railway utilities may perform the planning or superintending and installation, operation and maintenance of equipment and materials required for the operation of the business of such utilities without a license, but when said employees perform said work on property or premises of others, except when making service connections and installing and testing transformers, meters and other equipment ordinarily furnished by and remaining the property of the utility, they shall be licensed in the same manner provided for in this article.
(b) 
The operating engineers and their assistants in charge of power generating plants, prime movers, and all auxiliary equipment, and appliances connected therewith, shall be exempt in the supervision, maintenance, and repairs and in the operation of the electrical equipment under their jurisdiction.
(c) 
Plant electricians regularly employed by an employer may not be licensed while doing electrical maintenance work that is limited exclusively to the plant or shop of their employees.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Original § 14.12, Subsection 2d, which immediately followed this subsection and dealt with indentured apprentices, was repealed at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
(d) 
A homeowner may personally wire his own single-family dwelling, but a permit must be procured and work inspected and approved in the same manner as for a licensed electrician. An owner must prove his competence to conform to all rules and regulations. "Homeowner" is a person owning and occupying as his permanent address a single-family dwelling.
(3) 
Revocation of licenses. Any license under the provisions of this article may be revoked by the designated authority if the licensee violates any ordinance or law relating to electrical work or is guilty of installing electrical construction which is a hazard to life or property.
D. 
Permits.
(1) 
When to issue. The Inspector shall issue permits for all electrical installations for light, heat or power upon the filing of proper application which shall be made on forms furnished by the Inspector and shall describe the nature of the work as well as such other information as may be required for inspection. In no case shall any electrical work be started unless a permit has been obtained, unless the same is exempt. The Inspector may require the applicant to furnish plans and specifications covering the work to be done. No permit shall be required for repairs made necessary for the proper maintenance of an existing installation.
(2) 
Temporary work. On applying for a permit for temporary work a specified period of time for which such wiring is to remain in service must be stated. Service shall be cut off at the end of this period and shall not again be connected without written permission from the Inspector.
(3) 
Town electrical permit fees shall be as periodically adopted by the Grand Chute Town Board and included in the Town Fee Schedule. Fees shall be paid to the Town Building Inspector.[2]
[2]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
E. 
Inspection. Upon the completion of the wiring of any building or before any wiring is to be hidden from view, the person doing the same shall notify the Inspector, and he shall inspect the installation within 48 hours of the time such notice is received. If, upon inspection, it is found that such installation is fully in compliance with this article and does not constitute a hazard to life or property, he shall approve the same and authorize concealment of such wiring or connection for electrical service. If the installation is incomplete or not strictly in accordance with this article, he shall issue an order to the person installing the same to remove all hazards and make the necessary changes or additions within 10 days. Concealment of electrical work before inspection or failure to comply with the order of the Inspector shall constitute a violation of this article.
F. 
Construction requirements. No certificate of inspection shall be issued unless the electric light, power, or heating installation and all other electrical apparatus connected with it are in strict conformity with the provisions of this article and the rules and regulations of the State Electrical Code. Any person who shall make any additions, corrections, alterations, or connections to the installation after approval of the Inspector shall be responsible for the correct operation of the installation.[3]
[3]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
G. 
Arbitration. When the Inspector condemns all or part of the electrical installation in any building, the owner, within five days after receiving written notice from the Inspector, may file a petition in writing for review of said action of the Inspector to the Town Board, upon receipt of which said Board shall at once proceed to determine whether said electrical construction complies with this article and within three days shall make a decision in accordance with its findings.
H. 
Liability of owner of electrical wiring and equipment. This article shall not be construed to relieve from or lessen the responsibility or liability of any party owning, operating, controlling or installing any electrical equipment for damages to anyone injured or any property destroyed by any defect therein, nor shall the municipality be held as assuming any such liability by reason of inspection authorized herein or certificate issued as herein provided.
A. 
License required.[1]
(1) 
No person shall engage in the business of installation, servicing, repairing or cleaning of heating, ventilation or air-conditioning equipment without obtaining any license required by state law therefor.
(2) 
Firms, partnerships and corporations. A firm, partnership, or corporation may perform or contract to perform the work described in Subsection A(1) so long as it employs a person licensed hereunder who shall have immediate supervision of such work. If the licensee ceases to be employed by such firm, partnership or corporation, a new licensee shall be employed within 60 days.
(3) 
Heating contractor. A person licensed as required above and the person, firm, partnership or corporation who or which employs such licensee shall be a licensed heating contractor for purposes of this article.
(4) 
Exception. The owner and occupant of his own home housing not more than two families may do the work described in Subsection A(1) in such home without a license, but he must obtain a permit therefor and such work must be inspected and approved by the Building Inspector.
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
B. 
Permits.
(1) 
Taking out permit for another prohibited. No licensee shall take out a permit for work to be done by another contractor. Violation of this subsection shall be cause for revocation of the contractor's permit, and the Building Inspector may refuse the work.
(2) 
When permit required. A permit shall be required for new installations and additions and alterations to any type of heating, ventilating and air-conditioning installation and any type of duct work.
(3) 
Town heating and ventilation permit fees shall be as periodically adopted by the Grand Chute Town Board and included in the Town Fee Schedule.[2]
[2]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
C. 
Inspection.
(1) 
The Building Inspector shall examine and approve, when correct, all plans and specifications for the performance of any work governed by this article, point out in what respect such plans or specifications are defective or in violation of this article, inspect all work done in this area that requires inspection, and stop work being done in violation of this article. The Inspector shall have the right to enter upon a premises or into any building or enclosure where he has reasonable cause to believe work is being done.
(2) 
In any new building or addition, immediately upon completion and prior to use of those portions of the installation which are thereafter concealed or covered, the heating contractor must notify the Inspector. No person shall lath, plaster or cover any such work before inspection has been made. The Inspector must make inspection within two working days after notice for inspection, excepting Sundays or holidays. All other inspections (such as old work) shall be made immediately upon notification of completion of such work.[3]
[3]
Editor's Note: The following original sections, which immediately followed this section, were repealed 12-20-2011 by Ord. No. 2011-30: § 14.21, Gravity warm air system, § 14.22, Forced warm air winter air conditioning, § 14.23, Warm air ceiling panel systems, § 14.24, Perimeter heating, § 14.25, Hot water and steam heating equipment, § 14.26, Electric heating, § 14.27, Oil burner and oil burner equipment for single and two family residences, § 14.28, Stokers and stoker fired heating, and § 14.29, Minimum requirements for the installation of gas fired equipment.
A. 
State code adopted. The State Plumbing Code, Chs. SPS 381 through 387 and SPS 320 through 325, Wis. Adm. Code, and Ch. 145, Wis. Stats., are hereby adopted as part of this article. The provisions thereof and of this article shall govern all plumbing, private sewage disposal and drainage work, and no plumbing, private sewage disposal and drainage work shall be done except in accordance with said codes and this article.
[Amended 6-29-2023 by Ord. No. 2023-06]
B. 
Report of existing insanitary installations. When directed by the Health Officer or upon written and signed complaint of any person to the Health Officer that work covered by this article is contrary to the ordinances of the Town or is a menace to health, the Building Inspector shall investigate the cause for complaint on said premises. He shall report his findings in writing to the Health Officer, suggesting such changes and corrections as are necessary to put the same in proper sanitary condition. The Building Inspector may also make such report at his own discretion or upon written and signed complaint made to him. The Health Officer thereupon shall direct such changes and corrections to be made as he deems necessary and fix a time for having the same done.
C. 
Inspection of vacant properties and relocated buildings.
(1) 
All rentable properties, upon becoming vacant, may be inspected by the Building Inspector and their sanitary condition determined. If the plumbing or any work covered by this article is in an insanitary condition or a menace to health or safety, the Building Inspector shall report to the Health Officer, and the premises shall be repaired and put in a sanitary condition before a new occupant takes possession.
(2) 
The plumbing in buildings moved from one lot or location to another shall be inspected by the Building Inspector and, when found necessary, tested in a manner satisfactory to said Building Inspector at the expense of the owner. If plumbing is found unsafe or insanitary, the same shall be repaired or remodeled and made to reasonably comply with this article.
D. 
Discharging of drains and sewers.
(1) 
No person shall discharge domestic sewage, industrial wastes or septic tank effluent onto the surface of the ground, into any drainage ditch, or into the river or any stream, or into any storm sewer or drain, or permit the same to be so discharged.
(2) 
Roof leaders, surface drains, groundwater drains, foundation footing drains, and other clear water drains shall be connected wherever possible with a storm sewer, but they shall not be connected to a building sewer which discharges into a sanitary sewer or private sewage treatment plant. Air-conditioning and clear water drains not described herein shall also discharge to storm drains or sewers unless special permission is obtained from the Building Inspector where an unnecessary hardship would result and the spirit of this subsection will be observed. If stormwater or clear water is being discharged into a sanitary sewer, the Building Inspector shall give the offending person 15 days' notice to disconnect. Failure to disconnect after such notice shall authorize the Building Inspector to cause disconnection and assessment of the costs of such disconnection against the property involved. The Building Inspector may, in the alternative, institute action for violation of this subsection.
(3) 
Sump pumps.
[Added 7-18-2017 by Ord. No. 2017-09; amended 6-29-2023 by Ord. No. 2023-06]
(a) 
New installations. In all new construction, sump pumps (which must be approved) shall discharge into a storm sewer where such is available or can be made available, unless dictated otherwise via permit by another governmental agency with regulatory oversight. The definition of "new construction" shall include any additional sump pump added to a structure after the effective date of this amendment.[1] In areas where storm sewer is not available, the sump pump shall discharge onto the surface at least three feet from the building foundation. Discharge from the sump pump shall be directed either toward the rear or front lot line and shall not be directed as to flow onto adjacent property (unless it indirectly flows into a recorded drainage/stormwater easement prior to flowing onto adjacent property). Discharge from a sump pump shall not create a nuisance. The sump pump discharge shall be considered a nuisance in situations including, but not necessarily limited to, such discharge creating icing problems, damaging a Town street, sidewalk, or trail, creating continuous ponds of standing water, or flowing over adjoining property (except as indicated above). Presence of standing water apparently resulting from sump pump discharge (in the opinion of the Director of Public Works or the Chief Building Inspector) that remains for more than 72 hours after the cessation of a rainfall event on any lot within a residential zoning district that is improved with one or more residential dwelling units so as to cause property damage shall constitute a standing water public nuisance. The point of discharge shall be a minimum of 10 feet from a property line and a minimum of five feet from the drainage/stormwater easement line to allow for infiltration and reduce erosion.
[1]
Editor's Note: This refers to the amendment enacted by Ordinance No. 2023-06, adopted 6-29-2023.
(b) 
Existing installations.
[1] 
Existing installations are defined as any sump pump installed prior to the effective date of this amendment. All sump pumps shall discharge into a storm sewer where such is available or can be made available if, in the opinion of the Director of Public Works or Chief Building Inspector, the sump pump discharge creates a nuisance [as defined in § 220-31D(3)(a), above]. As an interim step, the discharge point may be moved. The point of discharge shall be a minimum of ten feet from a property line and a minimum of five feet from the drainage/stormwater easement line to allow for infiltration and reduce erosion, unless site constraints warrant a variance. If the nuisance continues, the Chief Building Inspector or his/her designee shall issue a connection order, in accordance with this section, ordering that the property connect the sump pump discharge to the storm sewer. The expense incurred to connect to the storm sewer is the responsibility of the property owner.
[a] 
Issuance of a connection order. The Chief Building Inspector or his/her designee shall issue a written order that a property drain its sump pump discharge into a storm sewer.
[b] 
Connection order; extensions. A connection order may be served, in person or by first class mail, upon either the owner of the property or its occupant. The order shall provide that the connection to the storm sewer shall be made within 45 days after its issuance. Upon reasonable written request made by the owner, time extensions may be granted for ordered connections at the discretion of the Building Inspector.
[2] 
Sump pump point of discharge locations within drainage/stormwater easements, within 10 feet of a property line, or towards side yards prior to the effective date of this amendment may remain in their current location unless prohibited by other governmental agencies with regulatory oversight or in the opinion of the Director of Public Works, Chief Building Inspector, or their designee a nuisance is created as defined above.
E. 
Permits and fees.
(1) 
When permit is required; fees.
(a) 
Town plumbing permit fees shall be as prescribed in the Town Fee Schedule.
[Amended 12-20-2011 by Ord. No. 2011-30]
(b) 
Any person desiring to do plumbing shall, before beginning active work, file with the Building Inspector, upon application blanks furnished by the Town, a description of the property and the nature of the work to be done.
(2) 
Permit restrictions; cancellation and withholding of permits.
(a) 
No permit for plumbing in a new or relocated building shall be issued until:
[1] 
The Building Inspector is satisfied that all unused sewer and water services to the premises are sealed.
[2] 
A sewer permit and building permit have been issued.
(b) 
No plumbing or sewer permit shall be granted to anyone who has failed to comply with this article. No permit shall be issued to any person or to any master plumber against whom an order issued by the Building Inspector is pending. No permit shall be issued to any person who has been in the past found violating or has willfully violated this article. Bad faith or unreasonable delay in the performance of any work covered by this article or failure to respond promptly to official communications shall be deemed sufficient reason for withholding permits, and the master plumber shall be held responsible for the violation of these regulations by himself or any of his employees.
(c) 
All permits are good for a continuous performance of the work named thereon; permits shall automatically expire when work ceases for a period of 60 days without good and reasonable cause for the same, and a permit shall automatically expire on completion of the work for which it was issued.
(d) 
The Building Inspector may cancel the permit on any job for violation of the license law or codes and ordinances and stop work in any case where installation is not being made in compliance with this article.
(e) 
The Building Inspector may cancel a permit upon written request of a master plumber or the owner for which work is being done, provided that acceptable arrangements shall first be made for reissue of the permit to another master plumber for proper completion of the work, and the original permit shall not be canceled until a master plumber applies for and is granted a permit to complete the work. The procedure for requested cancellation and reissue of permits shall be as follows:
[1] 
If the master plumber does not complete the entire installation for which he received a permit, he shall immediately notify the Building Inspector in writing requesting cancellation and detailing the extent of the work he has done.
[2] 
The person who has hired the master plumber may request cancellation in writing and shall then specify the name of the master plumber he is employing to finish the work.
[3] 
The work shall be stopped until a permit has been issued for completion.
F. 
Notice for inspection. The Building Inspector shall be notified for inspection in accordance with requirements of this article and of the State Plumbing Code. Notification shall include the owner's name, correct address of the property, and name of the master plumber. No work shall be enclosed on any floor level before approval of the Building Inspector. Such inspection and approval shall not in any case constitute a guarantee against imperfection by either the municipality or the Building Inspector.[2]
[2]
Editor's Note: Original §§ 14.36 to 14.49, Gas Equipment Code, and § 14.50, New materials and methods, which immediately followed this section, were repealed at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
A. 
Unless based on accepted engineering design, all new building materials, appliances, equipment, systems or methods of construction not provided for in this article shall be subjected to tests that simulate the actual conditions which occur in normal use. Such tests shall be made at the expense of the applicant at an independent testing laboratory, and copies of the test results shall be kept on file in the office of the Building Inspector.
B. 
The Building Inspector may accept duly authenticated reports from recognized authoritative sources in respect to the use of any new materials, methods or systems of construction complying with applicable specifications and standards of accepted engineering practices or any such new materials, methods, or systems of construction approved by the Department of Safety and Professional Services, State of Wisconsin.
Prefabricated assemblies not capable of design by accepted engineering analysis shall be subjected to tests. When prefabricated assemblies are not readily accessible for inspection at the site, the registered engineer or architect or other authorized approved representative of the manufacturer shall furnish a certified report of inspection. All tests and inspection records shall be accessible to the Building Inspector at all times during fabrication and erection of the building or assembly unit, or such records as he may designate shall be filed with him.
A. 
It shall be unlawful for any person to erect, use, occupy, or maintain any building or structure in violation of any provisions of this article or to cause, permit or suffer any such violations to be committed. It shall be the responsibility of the offender to abate the violation as expeditiously as possible, and each day that such violation is permitted to continue shall constitute a separate offense. Any person violating any of the provisions of this article shall, upon conviction, be subject to a forfeiture as prescribed in the Uniform Forfeiture and Bond Schedules, together with the costs of prosecution, and in default of payment thereof shall be imprisoned for a period of not less than one day nor more than six months or until such forfeiture and costs are paid.
B. 
If, in any action, a permit was issued, it shall not constitute a defense, nor shall any error, oversight, or dereliction of duty on the part of the Building Inspector constitute a defense.
It shall be unlawful to commence work prior to obtaining a permit therefor. Triple fees shall be charged if work is commenced prior to the issuance of a permit to do so.
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
Permits for the following construction or installations shall be required prior to such construction or installation:
A. 
Signs, canopies and billboards. It shall be unlawful for any person to erect, alter or relocate within the Town any sign or other advertising structure without first obtaining a permit therefor and paying a permit fee. Fees shall be per the Town Fee Schedule. All illuminated signs shall be subject to the provisions of the Electrical Code and the permits and fees required therein.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II). Original § 14.58, Subsection 2, Fuel storage tanks, which immediately followed this subsection, was repealed at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
B. 
Swimming pools. A permit is hereby required for the installation of any permanent exterior structure designed to contain water for the purpose of bathing or swimming. Permanent exterior structures or pools are defined as being so designed to contain water or its equivalent on a year-round basis or are of such a nature as to not be readily assembled or disassembled. This subsection does not apply to water reservoirs or tanks which are completely enclosed and are designed only for the purpose of water storage. Permit fees hereunder shall be as prescribed in the Town Fee Schedule. Fees shall be paid to the Building Inspector upon issuance of the permit.
C. 
Siding.[2]
[2]
Editor's Note: Added at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
D. 
Patios.[3]
[3]
Editor's Note: Added at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
E. 
Decks.[4]
[4]
Editor's Note: Added at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
F. 
Fences.[5]
[5]
Editor's Note: Added at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II).
Any person, firm or corporation that shall violate any of the provisions of this article shall forfeit an amount as prescribed in the Uniform Forfeiture and Deposit Schedule and the costs of prosecution and, in default of payment of the fine and costs of prosecution, shall be imprisoned in the county jail until such fine and costs are paid, but not to exceed 60 days. Each day of violation of a provision of this article shall constitute a separate offense. This section and the penalties herein shall be in addition to penalties and remedies provided for the enforcement of regulations and codes established by the Wisconsin Administrative Code and the Wisconsin Statutes in those provisions adopted or applied by this article.